Belgium, with its thriving agricultural sector and central location in Europe, offers significant opportunities for foreign workers through visa sponsorship programs. Farm jobs in Belgium allow international workers to legally work, earn in euros, and gain hands-on experience in diverse agricultural practices.
This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about farm jobs in Belgium with visa sponsorship, including types of jobs, salaries, visa programs, eligibility requirements, application steps, and tips to secure employment.
What Are Farm Jobs in Belgium with Visa Sponsorship?
Farm jobs with visa sponsorship in Belgium are positions where employers are legally authorized to hire foreign workers under government-approved programs. These jobs provide a legal pathway for international workers to gain employment while enjoying worker protections under Belgian labor law.
Benefits include:
- Legal work authorization
- Competitive wages
- Social protections and labor rights
- Accommodation support in some cases
- Opportunities for contract extensions
- Pathways to permanent residency
Why Farm Jobs in Belgium Are in High Demand
Belgium’s agriculture sector is growing but faces labor shortages due to:
- Seasonal harvesting for fruits, vegetables, and cereals
- Expansion of dairy, livestock, and horticulture farms
- An aging local workforce
- Limited interest from local workers in physically demanding farm work
Types of Farm Jobs Available with Visa Sponsorship
Crop Farming Jobs
Tasks include planting, maintaining, and harvesting crops like vegetables, fruits, and cereals.
Common roles:
- Field worker
- Harvester
- Planter
- Greenhouse worker
- Irrigation assistant
Livestock and Animal Care Jobs
Responsibilities include feeding, cleaning, and monitoring animals.
Popular roles:
- Dairy farm worker
- Pig and cattle caretaker
- Poultry attendant
- Animal caretaker
Horticulture and Greenhouse Jobs
Belgium has a well-developed greenhouse industry.
Duties include:
- Planting and transplanting
- Maintenance and pruning
- Harvesting and packaging
- Quality control
Skilled Machinery Jobs
Workers operate and maintain farm machinery.
Examples:
- Tractor operator
- Farm machinery technician
- Irrigation specialist
- Equipment operator
Supervisory and Management Jobs
Experienced workers can advance to leadership positions:
- Farm supervisor
- Operations manager
- Production coordinator
- Agribusiness manager
Average Salary for Farm Jobs in Belgium with Visa Sponsorship
Salaries vary depending on experience, job type, and region.
Entry-Level Workers
- Hourly wage: €11 – €14
- Monthly income: €1,900 – €2,600
Skilled Workers
- Hourly wage: €15 – €22
- Monthly income: €2,500 – €3,800
Supervisors and Managers
- Monthly salary: €3,500 – €6,000+
- Annual income: €42,000 – €72,000+
Additional benefits may include housing, meals, and transportation support.
Main Visa Programs for Farm Workers in Belgium
Seasonal Worker Visa
Allows temporary work for up to 6 months in agriculture.
Features:
- Employer-sponsored
- Seasonal contracts
- Legal employment
- Accommodation support often provided
Skilled Worker / Professional Visa
For long-term and skilled roles in agriculture or agribusiness.
Benefits:
- Long-term employment
- Pathway to permanent residency
- Family sponsorship options
Internship and Training Programs
Some programs allow temporary employment combined with skill development.
Eligibility Requirements for Sponsored Farm Jobs
General Requirements
- Valid passport
- Job offer from a licensed Belgian employer
- Health clearance
- Clean criminal record
- Willingness to perform physical labor
- Basic Dutch, French, or English skills for communication
Educational Requirements
- Entry-level roles: No formal education required
- Skilled or managerial roles: Certificates or degrees in agriculture preferred
Work Experience
- Entry-level: Not required
- Skilled roles: 1–3 years recommended
How to Apply for Farm Jobs in Belgium with Visa Sponsorship
Step 1:
Sources include:
- Government-approved recruitment agencies
- Official farm company websites
- Belgian government job portals
Step 2: Prepare Your Resume/CV
Include:
- Personal details
- Work experience
- Skills relevant to farming
- Availability
- References
Step 3: Submit Applications
Apply through official channels. Interviews may be conducted online.
Step 4: Receive Job Offer
Successful applicants receive a formal employment contract.
Step 5: Employer Sponsors Your Visa
The employer submits the visa application to Belgian authorities.
Step 6: Complete Visa Formalities
Required documents:
- Passport
- Job offer/contract
- Health clearance
- Police certificate
- Proof of funds (if required)
Step 7: Travel and Begin Work
Once approved, you can legally work on the farm in Belgium.
Best Regions for Farm Jobs in Belgium
Flanders
- Greenhouses, vegetables, and fruits
Wallonia
- Dairy farms, livestock, and cereals
Brussels Region
- Urban farms and horticulture projects
Limburg
- Orchards, greenhouse horticulture, and specialty crops
Working Conditions and Daily Life
Farm work in Belgium can be physically demanding:
- Early morning shifts
- Outdoor work in all weather conditions
- Long hours during harvest seasons
- Team-oriented tasks
- Accommodation may be provided for seasonal workers
Benefits of Farm Jobs in Belgium with Visa Sponsorship
- Legal employment in Belgium
- Competitive wages
- Safe and regulated working environment
- Housing and transport support in some cases
- Opportunities for contract renewal
- International work experience
- Pathway to permanent residency
Challenges to Consider
- Physically demanding work
- Seasonal nature of contracts
- Adapting to Belgian culture and languages
- Rural locations with limited amenities
Tips to Secure a Job Quickly
- Apply early before peak harvest seasons
- Learn basic Dutch or French phrases
- Gain prior farm or manual labor experience
- Prepare required documents in advance
- Work only with verified employers
- Maintain good physical health
Avoiding Scams
Red flags:
- Large upfront fees
- Fake job offers or contracts
- Employers not approved for sponsorship
- Pressure tactics
Verify employers via official Belgian government portals or approved agencies.
Career Growth and Long-Term Opportunities
Farm work can lead to higher-level roles:
- Team leader or supervisor
- Equipment or machinery specialist
- Farm operations manager
- Agribusiness owner
Some skilled roles allow eligibility for long-term visas and permanent residency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can foreigners work in Belgium with visa sponsorship?
Yes, through Seasonal Worker, Skilled Worker, and other government-approved programs.
Do I need prior experience?
Entry-level jobs accept beginners; experience increases chances for skilled roles.
Is housing provided?
Many employers offer free or low-cost accommodation.
Can farm work lead to permanent residence?
Certain skilled or long-term roles may provide pathways to residency.
How long does the visa last?
Seasonal visas: up to 6 months; Skilled visas: 1–3 years, renewable.